Combination Backpack and Inflatable Mattress

ABSTRACT

The present invention is an improved recreational carrier combination such as a backpack and inflatable mattress that may be used on camping, hiking, or other recreational trips. The backpack and inflatable mattress includes one or more internal compartments for storing clothing, food, and other items. In addition, the backpack has a portable inflatable air mattress and air compressor or pump for filling the portable air mattress. The backpack further includes a rechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels. The backpack and inflatable mattress combination includes a set of shoulder straps for carrying the device, as well as, a handle and wheels for rolling the device. Finally, the device includes a protective cover that covers the inflatable bed when it is inflated and ready for use.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S.Provisional Application No. 63/188,092, which was filed on May 13, 2021,and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of recreationalgear. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improvedcombination backpack and inflatable mattress that may be used forcamping, hiking, or other recreational trips, activities and vacations.The improved recreational accessory, backpack and inflatable mattresscombination, includes one or more internal compartments for storingclothing, food, accessories, tools and other items that are commonlytaken on trips or other outings. In addition, the improved recreationalaccessory includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be storedwithin an internal compartment of the carrier or backpack when it is notin use. Additionally, the improved recreational accessory backpackfurther includes an air compressor for filling the portable air mattressand can be used for other purposes such as filling bicycle tires,vehicle tires, floats, pillows and other inflatable items. The improvedbackpack device includes a rechargeable battery that may be externallycharged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-in solar panels.The improved recreational accessory, backpack and inflatable mattresscombination, includes a set of shoulder or carrier straps for carryingthe device, as well as, a handle, and wheels or a slide for rolling orpulling the device, much like conventional luggage. Finally, theinvention includes a privacy tent or screen that covers the inflatablebed when it is inflated and ready for use. Accordingly, the presentdisclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to beappreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equallyapplicable to other like applications, devices and methods ofmanufacture.

BACKGROUND

By way of background, traditional backpacks, rucksacks, carryalls andthe like are used for storing various travel items and clothing that arecommonly needed for taking trips, camping, engaging in recreational orsocial activities, and hiking. Locating a place to sleep while in thewilderness can be incredibly difficult, and typically requiresadditional sleeping bags, bedding pads, other accessories, or airmattresses. These additional items are not traditionally stored within abackpack or other luggage. Instead, separate storage is needed for theadditional bedding items. This can be difficult to carry along with theuser's backpack particularly during more strenuous activities such ashiking or climbing.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improvedcombination backpack and inflatable mattress that has storage spaceinside the backpack or other carrier for an inflatable mattress. Inaddition, there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpackand inflatable mattress that has a built-in air compressor/pump forfilling the inflatable air mattress or other items that may needinflation. Also, there is a long-felt need for an improved backpackdevice that has a rechargeable battery, which can be charged externallyor by solar panels, for operating an air compressor/pump, LED lights,and other electrical devices. Finally, there is a long-felt need for animproved combination backpack and inflatable mattress that has asunscreen, bug netting or privacy covering for placing over the airmattress when it is inflated and ready for use.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, is an improvedcombination recreational accessory carrier and includes one or moreinternal compartments for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories andother items that are commonly taken on trips. In addition, the improvedrecreational accessory carrier includes a portable, inflatable airmattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when it isnot in use. Additionally, the improved recreational accessory carrier orbackpack device includes an air compressor or pump for filling theportable air mattress or other inflatable items such as tires, pillows,floats and the like. The improved recreational accessory carrierbackpack device may further include one or more covers for placing overthe air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. A privacy cover,screen, bug netting, or tent can be configured as having two sidesurfaces and a top surface positioned above and around the air mattressas tent or protective cover or shield around the user. Alternatively, acanopy-style cover can be configured as a flat surface, positioned abovethe air mattress that can act as a sunscreen, protective netting orcover for the user reducing exposure to bugs and the elements. Finally,a tubular mesh-style covering can extend the length of the air mattressand may act as an insect barrier to the user, thus allowing air flow tokeep the user comfortable.

The improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack includes arechargeable battery that may be externally charged, or alternatively,it can be charged by built-in solar panels that are affixed to theexterior surface(s) of one of the covers for the air mattress aspreviously described. Alternatively, the solar panels can be removedfrom the carrier, positioned for the best exposure to the sun andconnected to the item needing to be charged. In addition to providingpower for the air compressor/pump, or other accessories, therechargeable battery can also be connected to one or more LED lights forluminating the area around the air mattress and inside the storagecompartments in the backpack portion of the improved device. The coverfor the air mattress also includes one or more speakers for connectingto a smart phone, thus allowing music, other sounds or alerts to beplayed through the speakers.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basicunderstanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summaryis not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identifykey/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its solepurpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as aprelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodimentthereof, comprises an improved combination recreational accessorycarrier or backpack, inflatable mattress, and a cover for going over themattress when it is inflated or otherwise in use. In addition, theimproved recreational accessory carrier or backpack includes a portableinflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internalcompartment when it is not in use. The current embodiment of the presentinvention includes a cover that is configured as a privacy cover or tentfor placing over the inflatable mattress when it is inflated and readyfor use.

The recreational accessory carrier or backpack of the present inventionfurther includes a retractable handle, wheels, skids, slides, and/orfeet for allowing the user to pull it, much like traditional luggage.Further, shoulder or carrier straps may also be affixed to the backpackto allow it to be carried on a user's back, as would be the preferredmode for hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have aclosure, such as zipper, hook and loop, magnets, snaps, or the like forsecuring clothing, food, and other items that are commonly taken ontrips. In the transport mode, the inflatable air mattress is deflatedand rolled-up within one of the specially configured internalcompartments within the backpack. Further, an air compressor or airpump, along with a rechargeable battery are also fitted within one ofthe internal compartments of the backpack. A charging port for anexternal power source may be conveniently located on the top or sidesurfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the charging port may be locatednear or on the rechargeable battery unit. Removable solar panels mayalso be provided as well as a conventional plug configuration for use ata campground when electrical service is available.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the carrieror backpack is first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the flapto the internal compartment containing the air mattress. The user thenunrolls the air mattress. Next, the user opens the flap containing theair compressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pump by turning onthe power switch. The rechargeable battery unit provides the necessarypower for the air compressor/pump. When the air mattress is sufficientlyinflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Opening a separateflap, the retractable frame can now be extended for the privacy orprotective cover, which is stored within one of the internalcompartments within the backpack. After setting-up the privacy cover,which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles a tent, theuser is now ready to use the air mattress.

Additional features are also available for the user once the airmattress is inflated, and the privacy cover has been placed over the airmattress. First, solar panels may be affixed to the top and/or sidesurfaces of the privacy cover for the purpose of recharging therechargeable battery when there is sufficient sunlight. Alternatively,the carrier or backpack may have a removable solar panel module whichthe individual can deploy for charging purposes. Second, one or more LEDlights may be attached to the retractable frame so that the user canhave some light to read while on the air mattress and inside the privacytent when it is dark outside. Finally, one or more speakers can beattached to the retractable frame for connection to an external radio orsmartphone for playing music, sporting events, and the like. Thespeakers may be configured for direct connection to the audio source ormay alternately be connected wireless. The rechargeable battery may alsoinclude a USB charging port for the user's smartphone.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the improved combinationrecreational accessory carrier or backpack and inflatable mattresscomprises an improved combination carrier or backpack, inflatablemattress, and a cover for going over the mattress when it is inflated.In addition, the improved backpack device includes a portable inflatableair mattress that can be stored within an internal compartment when itis not in use. The current embodiment of the present invention includesa cover that is configured as a canopy-style cover or sunscreen orprotective netting for placing above the inflatable mattress when it isinflated and ready for use.

The recreational accessory carrier or backpack of the present inventionfurther includes a retractable handle, wheels, skids, slides and/or feetfor allowing the user to pull it, much like traditional luggage.Further, shoulder or carrier straps may also be affixed to the backpackto allow it to be carried on a user's back, as would be the preferredmode for hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have aclosure, such as zipper, hook and latch, magnets, snaps, or the like forsecuring clothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that arecommonly taken on trips. In the transport mode, the inflatable airmattress is deflated and rolled-up within one of the speciallyconfigured internal compartments within the backpack. Further, an aircompressor or air pump, along with a rechargeable battery are alsofitted within one of the internal compartments of the backpack. Acharging port for an external power source may be conveniently locatedon the top or side surfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the chargingport may be located near or on the rechargeable battery unit.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the backpackis first turned onto its side. Then, the user opens the flap for theinternal compartment containing the air mattress. The user then unrollsthe air mattress. Next, the user opens the flap containing the aircompressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pump by turning on thepower switch. The rechargeable battery unit provides the necessary powerfor the air compressor/pump. When the air mattress is sufficientlyinflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Opening a separateflap, the retractable frame can now be extended for the canopy-stylecover, which is stored within one of the internal compartments withinthe backpack or carrier. After setting-up the canopy-style cover, whichin this embodiment of the present invention resembles a sunscreen, orother protective netting, the user is now ready to use the air mattress.Additional features are also available for the user once the airmattress is inflated, and the canopy-style cover has been placed overthe air mattress as previously described in the first embodiment of thepresent invention.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the improvedcombination backpack and inflatable mattress comprises a backpack,inflatable mattress, and a cover for going over the mattress when it isinflated. In addition, the improved backpack or recreational accessorycarrier includes a portable inflatable air mattress that can be storedwithin an internal compartment when it is not in use. The currentembodiment of the present invention includes a tubular mesh-style coverthat is configured as an insect barrier for placing around theinflatable mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. A moistureimpermeable cover may also be provided to protect the individual fromrain, snow, and other moisture one may encounter during a camping tripor other recreational outing.

The backpack of the present invention further includes a retractablehandle, wheels, skids, slides, and/or feet for allowing the user to pullit, much like traditional luggage. Further, shoulder straps may also beaffixed to the backpack to allow it to be carried on a user's back, orsupported from the individual's shoulder as would be the preferred modefor hiking and camping trips. The internal compartments may have aclosure, such as zipper, hook and latch, magnets, snaps, or the like forsecuring clothing, food, and other items that are commonly taken ontrips. In the transport mode, the inflatable air mattress is deflatedand rolled-up within one of the specially configured internalcompartments within the backpack. Further, an air compressor or airpump, along with a rechargeable battery are also fitted within one ofthe internal compartments of the backpack. A charging port for anexternal power source may be conveniently located on the top or sidesurfaces of the backpack. Alternately, the charging port may be locatednear or on the rechargeable battery unit.

When the user decides to setup the inflatable air mattress, the useropens the flap to the internal compartment containing the air mattress.The user then unrolls the air mattress. Next, the user opens the flapcontaining the air compressor/pump and activates the air compressor/pumpby turning on the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit providesthe necessary power for the air compressor/pump. When the air mattressis sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor. Next,the cover that was stored within one of the internal compartments of thebackpack can now be extended and placed around the air mattress. Wireframe supports will keep the cover in the correct position. Additionalclosures, such as a zipper or magnets, can be used to allow the user toget inside of the cover. Once inside, the user will now have an insect,moisture, sun or other suitable barrier around them. In the presentembodiment, a retractable frame attached to the backpack is not needed,thereby allowing the user to position the backpack upright or on itsside. Additional features are also available for the user once the airmattress is inflated, and the cover has been placed around the airmattress as previously described in the first embodiment of the presentinvention. The cover may be made from a mesh material, moistureimpermeable material, or other lightweight material, such as linen,cheese cloth or the like to provide suitable protection for theindividuals.

The improved recreational accessory carrier, or backpack and inflatablemattress of the present invention is particularly advantageous becauseit may be used for travel, camping, hiking, as well as many otherrecreational activities. The improved recreational accessory carrier, orbackpack and inflatable mattress combination comes in variousconfigurations and may be made from nylon, denim, canvas or othersuitable materials and can be of any color based on the user's desiresand may include logos and other instructional decals without limitation.The improved recreational accessory carrier or backpack and inflatablemattress combination may be sized to accommodate users ranging fromsmall to large or child to adult depending on the needs of the user.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certainillustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein inconnection with the following description and the annexed drawings.These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various waysin which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and areintended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Otheradvantages and novel features will become apparent from the followingdetailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar referencecharacters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and inwhich:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of theimproved backpack and inflatable mattress combination of the presentinvention having a privacy cover as per the disclosed design with theair mattress inflated and ready for use;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in a transportmode similar to that of traditional luggage;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design and now placed onits side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with air mattressinflated prior to extending the retractable frame and installing theprivacy cover;

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodimentof the improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of thepresent invention having a canopy-style cover as per the discloseddesign with the air mattress inflated and ready for use;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment ofthe improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the presentinvention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed designwith the air mattress inflated and ready for use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, whereinlike reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout.In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovationcan be practiced without these specific details. In other instances,well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form inorder to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments arediscussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are describedonly to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are notintended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limitthe scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment neednot have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in otherembodiments, any of the features described herein from differentembodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for an improvedrecreational accessory carrier combination such as a backpack andinflatable mattress that has storage space inside the backpack for aninflatable mattress and other items. In addition, there is a long-feltneed for an improved recreational accessory carrier combination such asa backpack and inflatable mattress that has a built-in aircompressor/pump for filling the inflatable air mattress. Also, there isa long-felt need for an improved recreational accessory carriercombination or backpack device that has a rechargeable battery, whichcan be charged externally or by solar panels, for operating an aircompressor/pump, LED lights, and other electrical devices. Finally,there is a long-felt need for an improved combination backpack andinflatable mattress that has a sunscreen, rain shield or privacycovering for placing over the air mattress when it is inflated and readyfor use.

The present invention, an improved combination backpack and inflatablemattress, includes one or more internal compartments for storingclothing, food, tools, accessories and other items that are commonlytaken on trips or used for recreational purposes. In addition, theimproved recreational accessory carrier or backpack device includes aportable inflatable air mattress that can be stored within an internalcompartment when it is not in use. The inflatable mattress is inflatablefrom a first position to a second position with the second positionbeing larger than the first position and the first position being of asize and dimension to fit within the compartment of the backpack orcarrier. The inflatable mattress may also have one or more air vents toallow the air mattress to be quickly and easily deflated. Additionally,the improved carrier or backpack device includes an air compressor orpump for filling the portable air mattress. The improved carrier orbackpack device may further include one or more covers for placing overthe air mattress when it is inflated and ready for use. In one exemplaryembodiment, a privacy cover or tent can be configured as having two sidesurfaces and a top surface positioned above and around the air mattressas tent around the user. In a second exemplary embodiment, acanopy-style cover can be configured as a flat surface positioned abovethe air mattress that can act as a sunscreen or rain shield for theuser. Finally, in a third exemplary embodiment, a tubular mesh-stylecovering can extend the length of the air mattress and may act as insectbarrier to the user, thus allowing air flow to keep the usercomfortable.

The improved backpack device includes a rechargeable battery that may beexternally charged, or alternatively, it can be charged by built-insolar panels that are affixed to the exterior surface(s) of one of thecovers for the air mattress as previously described. In addition toproviding power for the air compressor/pump, the rechargeable batterycan also be connected to one or more LED lights for luminating the areaaround the air mattress and inside the storage compartments in thebackpack portion of the improved device. The cover for the air mattressalso includes one or more speakers for connecting to a smart phone, thusallowing music, sounds or alerts to be played through the speakers. Thesmartphone may contain one or more downloaded applications to allow fordifferent communications and messages to be played through the speakersuch as distress calls, location information, noises to scare offwildlife or other useful verbal commands or audible tones.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspectiveview of a preferred embodiment of the improved recreational accessorycombination or backpack and inflatable mattress of the present inventionhaving a privacy or protective cover as per the disclosed design withthe air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improved combinationbackpack and inflatable mattress 1000 is shown with the backpack 100laying on its side. The backpack or carrier 100 has an outer surface 111made from a durable material such as canvas, nylon, denim, or othermaterials. The inflatable air mattress 200 is shown in the inflatedposition adjacent to backpack 100. The embodiment of the presentinvention shown in FIG. 1, includes a privacy or protective cover 300sized to create a tent or cover over the air mattress 200. Having aninclined top surface 322 and side surfaces 325, the privacy orprotective cover 300 extends the entire length of the mattress from thefoot end of the air mattress 200 to the head end of the air mattress 200where it attaches to the retractable frame 310. The privacy cover 300 ispreferably made from nylon, denim, canvas or other durable material. Thecover, mattress, backpack or carrier may all be made from the samematerial and/or colors so that they all match or they may be made fromdifferent materials and colors depending on the preference of the user.The retractable frame 310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 1, ispreferably made from lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum, PVCpipes or other material. The retractable frame 310 can be stored withinopening 110 of the backpack or carrier 100. In the stowed position, theretractable frame 310 fits within the backpack 100 and is held securelyin place by flap 315 and closure 317.

The improved backpack or carrier 1000 includes a rechargeable battery470 (see FIG. 4) that may be externally charged via a charging port 30,or alternatively, it can be charged by solar panels 330 which may beintegrated with the invention or may be a separate module that can bepositioned or receive sunlight. If the solar panels are integral withthe invention, the panels are affixed to the top surface 322 and/or sidesurfaces 325 of the privacy cover 300. In addition to providing powerfor the air compressor/pump 450 (see FIG. 4), the rechargeable battery470 (see FIG. 4) can also be connected to one or more LED lights 340 forluminating the area around the air mattress 200 and inside the storagecompartments in the backpack 100 of the improved device. The privacycover 300 for the air mattress 200 also includes one or more speakers350 for connecting to a smart phone, thus allowing music, sounds, alertsor other audible information to be played through the speakers 350. Boththe LED lights 340 and speaker 350 may be attached to the retractableframe 310 or may be disposed elsewhere as needed on the carrier ormattress.

The retractable handle 10 can be used for pulling the backpack orcarrier when it is in a transport mode along the ground in an uprightposition via wheels, skids or slides 20 attached to the bottom side ofthe backpack 100. Feet 25 are mounted on each corner opposite fromwheels 20 on the bottom surface of the backpack 100 and allows thebackpack 100 to stand upright. The backpack 100 in transport mode willfurther be described in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now in atransport mode similar to that of traditional luggage. In thisconfiguration, the inflatable air mattress 200 and the privacy cover 300are stowed in the interior area of one of the internal compartments 400of the backpack or carrier 100 with each of the compartments having afastener to allow access to an interior area of the compartments. Wheels20 are preferably made from polyurethane roller wheels and feet 25 arepreferably made from a hard and durable plastic. The retractable handle10 is constructed from a tubular metal and may include either a plasticor rubber grip for comfort and sized to fit the user's hand.

The Backpack or carrier 100 includes a plurality of internalcompartments 400 for storing clothing, food, tools, accessories andother items that are commonly taken on trips or used for recreationalactivities. The items are kept secure and dry by closures 417 thattightly seal the flap 415 on the backpack or carrier 100. Closures 417such as zipper, hook and loop, magnets, snaps, or the like secure andseal each of the internal compartments 400. The improved backpack device1000 includes an inflatable air mattress 200 that is currently stowedwithin its internal compartment 400 behind the flap 215, which is sealedand secured by closure 217. The charging port 30 is preferably locatedon either the top or sides of the backpack 100 for attaching to anexternal power source.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design now placed onits side prior to unrolling the inflatable air mattress 200. Afteropening the closure 217, the air mattress 200 can be unrolled orunfolded from within its internal compartment 400.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of the presentinvention 1000 shown in FIG. 1 as per the disclosed design with the airmattress 200 inflated prior to extending the retractable frame 310 andinstalling the privacy cover or shield 300. When the user decides tosetup the inflatable air mattress 200, the backpack 100 is first turnedonto its side. Then, the user opens the closure 217 for the flap 215 togain access to the internal compartment 400 containing the air mattress200. The user then reaches into opening 219 and unrolls or unfolds theair mattress 200. Next, the user opens the flap 415 containing the aircompressor/pump 450 and activates the air compressor/pump 450 by turningon the power switch. The rechargeable battery unit 470 provides thenecessary power for the air compressor/pump 450. When the air mattress200 is sufficiently inflated, the user turns off the air compressor 450.Opening a separate flap 315, the retractable frame 310 can now beextended for the privacy cover 300, which is stored within one of theinternal compartments 400 within the backpack, 100 as previouslydescribed in the description for FIG. 1. After setting-up the privacycover 300, which in this embodiment of the present invention resembles atent, the user is now ready to use the air mattress 200. Air vents 431and 433 may be provided to deflate the air mattress or to adjust thefirmness of the mattress after inflating.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a second preferred embodimentof the improved recreational carrier combination or backpack andinflatable mattress of the present invention, having a canopy-stylecover as per the disclosed design with the air mattress inflated andready for use. The improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress2000 is shown with the backpack 2100 laying on its side. The inflatableair mattress 2200 is shown in the inflated position adjacent to thebackpack 2100. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 5includes a canopy-style cover 2300 sized to create a top-only sunscreenover air mattress 2200. Having an inclined top surface 2322, thecanopy-style cover 2300 extends from the foot-end of the air mattress2200 to the head end of the air mattress 2200 where it attaches to theretractable frame 2310. The canopy-style cover 2300 is preferably madefrom nylon, denim, canvas, or other durable material. The retractableframe 2310, shown in the extended position in FIG. 5, is preferably madefrom lightweight tubular metal such as aluminum or PVC pipes. Solarpanels (not shown) may also be affixed to the exterior surface of topsurface 2322 or may be provided as a module that can be repositioned foreasy use for recharging the rechargeable battery as previously describedin the description for FIG. 1.

The retractable frame 2310 can be stored within the backpack 2100 aspreviously described in the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 1. Feet orskids 2025 are mounted on each corner opposite from the wheels 2020 onthe bottom surface of the backpack 2100 and allows the backpack 2100 tostand upright. The air mattress 2200 can be deflated and rolled-up orfolded up and placed back into the backpack 2100 through an opening2217. The canopy-style cover 2300, air compressor and rechargeablebattery (not shown in FIG. 5, but previously described herein) are alsostowed within internal compartments of the backpack 2100. The backpack2100 in transport mode resembles the embodiment shown and described inFIG. 2.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment ofthe improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress of the presentinvention having a tubular mesh-style cover as per the disclosed designwith the air mattress inflated and ready for use. The improvedcombination backpack and inflatable mattress 3000 is shown with thebackpack 3100 standing upright. Alternately, the backpack 3100 may bealso positioned on its side since this embodiment of the presentinvention includes a free-standing tubular mesh-style cover 3300. Theinflatable air mattress 3200 is shown in the inflated position adjacentto the backpack 3100. The free-standing tubular mesh-style cover issized to go over and around the air mattress 3200. Wire frames 3310provide support for the mesh material 3322 to form a tunnel large enoughfor the user to lay down on the air mattress 3222. The mesh material3322 is preferably made from a nylon weave netting material that permitsair flow, but also serves as an insect barrier. The user may enter andexit the tubular mesh-style cover by opening the closure 3317, which maybe a zipper, magnets, or snaps. The operation of the air mattress 3200and backpack 3100 is similar to the previous embodiments describedherein. Finally, in a further embodiment, the device may furthercomprise a commercially available tracking device such as a GPStransmitter, RFID tag, etc. to enable a user to track the location ofthe device.

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claimsto refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the artwill appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature orcomponent by different names. This document does not intend todistinguish between components or features that differ in name but notstructure or function. As used herein “improved combination backpack andinflatable mattress”, “improved backpack device”, and “improvedbackpack” are interchangeable and refer to the improved combinationbackpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the presentinvention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the improved combination backpack andinflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 of the present invention can beof any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art withoutaffecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that itaccomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in theart will appreciate that the size, configuration and material of each ofthe improved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000,and 3000 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, andthat many other sizes and designs of the improved combination backpackand inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 are well within the scopeof the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of each of theimproved combination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and3000 are important design parameters for user convenience, the improvedcombination backpack and inflatable mattress 1000, 2000, and 3000 may beof any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or thatsuits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplaryembodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the presentinvention. While the embodiments described above refer to particularfeatures, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments havingdifferent combinations of features and embodiments that do not includeall of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the presentinvention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications,and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with allequivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subjectmatter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivablecombination of components or methodologies for purposes of describingthe claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art mayrecognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimedsubject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter isintended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variationsthat fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in eitherthe detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to beinclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising”is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

What is claimed is:
 1. A recreational accessory comprising: a carrierhaving an outer surface and at least one compartment having an openingfor providing access to an interior area; at least one of a handle orstraps attached to the carrier; and an inflatable mattress disposedwithin the interior area of the at least one compartment, wherein theinflatable mattress is repositionable between a first position and asecond position.
 2. The recreational accessory as recited in claim 1,wherein the carrier further comprises an air compressor for inflatingthe inflatable mattress.
 3. The recreational accessory as recited inclaim 1, wherein the first position is a deflated position, and thesecond position is an inflated position.
 4. The recreational accessoryas recited in claim 2 further comprising a rechargeable battery forpowering the air compressor.
 5. The recreational accessory as recited inclaim 4 further comprising a solar panel for supplying power to therechargeable battery.
 6. The recreational accessory as recited in claim1 further comprising at least one LED light.
 7. The recreationalaccessory as recited in claim 1 further comprising a protective coverfor use over the inflatable mattress, wherein the protective covercomprises a retractable frame.
 8. The recreational accessory as recitedin claim 7, wherein the protective cover provides protection against atleast one of a sunlight, an insect and a moisture.
 9. The recreationalaccessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover comprisesan LED light mounted to the retractable frame.
 10. The recreationalaccessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protective cover iscomprised of a mesh material.
 11. The recreational accessory as recitedin claim 7, wherein the carrier comprises a second compartment.
 12. Therecreational accessory as recited in claim 7, wherein the protectivecover extends over an entire length of the inflatable mattress.
 13. Abackpack comprising: a compartment sized and configured to house aninflatable mattress; a second compartment sized and configured to houseat least one of a food, a clothing, a tool or another accessory; an aircompressor; a rechargeable battery connected to the air compressor; anda protective cover having a retractable frame.
 14. The backpack asrecited in claim 13 further comprising a LED light attached to theretractable frame.
 15. The backpack as recited in claim 13, wherein theprotective cover extends over a length of the inflatable mattress whenthe inflatable mattress is inflated.
 16. The backpack as recited inclaim 13, wherein the protective cover protects again a sunlight, aninsect and a moisture.
 17. The backpack as recited in claim 13, whereinthe retractable frame is comprised of an aluminum or a plurality of PVCpipes.
 18. The backpack as recited in claim 13 further comprising asolar panel connected to the rechargeable battery for recharging therechargeable battery.
 19. A backpack and mattress combinationcomprising: a backpack having a compartment with an interior area aninflatable mattress having at least one air vent; an air compressor foruse in inflating the inflatable mattress; a rechargeable battery forproviding power for the air compressor; a solar panel for charging therechargeable battery; and a protective cover having a retractable frame,wherein the protective cover extends over a length of the inflatablemattress when the inflatable mattress is in an inflated position. 20.The backpack and mattress combination as recited in claim 19, whereinthe protective cover provides protection from at least one of asunlight, an insect and a moisture.